Also known as 'Parvo' this is a highly contagious disease characterized by diarrhoea that is often bloody.  Current vaccinations help to control the spread of this disease, however despite being vaccinated, some dogs may still contract and die from Parvovirus. 

Severe cases of ‘Parvo’ are often seen in dogs less than 6 months of age and the most severe cases in puppies less than 12 weeks of age, therefore it is advisable (not obligatory) to vaccinate puppies against Parvovirus between 6 – 10 weeks old.

Symptoms:

• vomiting (often severe) and diarrhoea
• dehydration
• dark or bloody faeces
• fever and lowered white blood cell counts
• myocarditis (inflammation of the heart) - a less common form of the disease

Acute parvovirus enteritis can progress very rapidly and death can occur as early as two days after the onset of the disease.

For more information please see: International Veterinary Information Service

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